Friday Facial: Week 3 Boscia

Boscia Luminizing Black Mask

This is the second time Ive tired this mask.  I did it once the day the product arrived in the mail and again today.  I was feeling my chin breaking out so this was the mask I wanted today.  It wasn't the one I originally wanted to blog about but I guess that can wait till next week. My pores were calling for a deep cleaning.



This mask reminds me of the ones I used as a teen. Ones that you had to wait for them to dry and then peel them off. I think the one I had all those yrs ago had a lemon scent.  This scent was nothing like that.  This product has a scent that reminded me of Elmer's glue and it has that feel as its drying. 

It also reminded me of why I haven't used peel off mask in probably 20 yrs. It can be as painful as a waxing.  Who wants to  wax their face? I got a waxing the first time I used it.  So be sure and follow directions carefully.   Keep away from any and all hair.

The product is like black tar.  If you have long hair or fly aways they can easily get caught in the tackiness of the product.  I also have to admit that I foolishly got some in my eyebrow the first time I used it and off came part of my brow.  I'm still waiting on that to come back in. However,  that was my fault. 

Be very careful if you use this product.  I also wouldn't advise anyone with a lot of fine facial hair to use it product.  It may end up more like a waxing.  Notice in this picture how careful I was this second time to stay away from the hair line and the brows.  You don't have to tell me twice ....esp when there is pain involved.  Ripping out my own hair is never fun.

Here's what they say about their product:

What it is:  A groundbreaking, mineral-rich mask that peels off to deliver powerful detoxifying, purifying, and brightening effects.

What it is formulated to do:
This jet-black, mineral-rich mask creates a unique peel-off effect that delivers powerful detoxifying, purifying, and brightening results. Made with a premier-quality clay, its deep-cleansing properties draw out dirt and oil. Other natural ingredients go to work exfoliating skin and refining pores. Powerful antioxidants shrink pores, firm skin, and reduce inflammation. Once dried, the mask strips away dead skin, impurities and excess oil to reveal immediate and visible results.

What else you need to know:Apply an even layer to clean, dry skin. Avoid eyebrows, hairline and lips. Avoid eye area by applying below orbital bone. Leave on 15-20 minutes or until completely dry. Gently peel off mask from outer edges. Rinse off any residue with warm water. Follow with moisturizer. Use once or twice a week.



Here's my review:

I really love the results.  It really does do a deep cleaning and your pores do appear smaller.  As soon as its removed I get an instant glow and I can tell my skin is in great condition.  It feels smooth and firm.  Everything this company says this mask does;  IT DOES!!!.

 The downfall for me is the painful removal of the mask and the care you have to take with your hair and your eyes as you use it.   I'm just not sure this full face mask is worth the pain.  I think I will continue to use this product more for a deep pore cleansing of my nose or my chin.  When I see clogged pores or feel a breakout coming on this will be what I turn to.  I don't think I will do a full mask again. 

I do love the results though, if it just wasn't such a chore to remove.  This is a great product for someone with a true blackhead or acne problem.  So this product for me is bitter sweet.  I love the results but at this time its just not worth the pain to get those results. 

Morning eye mask review

Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinal Instant Eye Mask

Here's what they say about their product:

Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Instant Eye Mask
Let your eyes tell lies about your age. These luxuriously opulent eye masks offer an intensely effective beauty treatment. The exclusive delivery system helps ensure you receive maximum beauty benefits with every use. Why settle for less when you can "wow" with Shiseido?

What You Get

Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Instant Eye Mask (12 packettes)

What It Does

Quickly delivers anti-wrinkle beauty treatment to the eyes Visibly improves the look of fine lines, crow's feet and uneven-feeling texture Helps the skin in the eye area maintain essential moisture

Features

Quickly delivers anti-wrinkle beauty treatment to the eyes Helps maintain skin's essential moisture in the eye area Aids in the effective improvement of the look of dark circles and dullness May also be used around the lips for a feeling of smoothness Developed with Shiseido liquid retinol delivery system and other key ingredients including SuperBio-Hyaluronic Acid, ginseng extract and vitamin C derivative Each individually sealed packette includes 2 product-saturated sheets

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Pentaerythrityl Tetraoctanoate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat., Betaine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Squalane, Xanthan Gum, Arginine Hci, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glucosyl Hesperidin, Ginseng Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxyproline, Raspberry Extract, Sodium Citrate, Carbomer, BHT, Potassium Hydroxide, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Alcohol, Trisodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Fragrance, Beta-Carotene.

Made in Japan

Founded in 1872 with origins in Japan, Shiseido is one of the oldest and most revered cosmetic companies in the world. Shiseido continues to transform itself with prestige skincare and makeup developed for every phase of a woman’s life. This long-established brand prides itself on a dedication to high-quality products, research and technology, and the customer.

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Here is how I felt about the product:

After having used 6 of the masks I really like this product.  I'm slowing seeing improvement in my eye darkness.  I cant give all the credit to the Shiseido Eye Masks but they are part of what is helping.  I'm also using a new eye cream 2x a day so I think it has to share bigtime  in the credit.  This eye mask immediately improves the texture and the radiance of the under eye area. It made my skin very soft and smooth.  I can see a plumpness that had been missing for 10 yrs where it has added hydration the caving under eye area. 

The pads are well saturated and there was enough liquid solution that I have my hands a treatment as well.  I'm not sure there was enough I could have replaced the pads and used it a second time but maybe I could have it I had been trying to be frugal. 

I'd also like to say that Ive never had any negative effects from the Shiseido products.  I have had products where right after starting to use them my face breaks out.  Ive had no reaction from these.  My skin just keeps getting better and better. 

I wont say it gave me a WOW feeling they claim but maybe by the time;  I've used the entire box, I will.  I like this product even more than the facial mask.  Maybe its because my eyes needed more help! 

Will I buy this product again?  Not right away. I got 12 treatments for $62.50.  Due to the price point that I paid for this I wont be.  Not that its not worth it but Ive decided to stop working at my job and go back to school.  So I'm using up things I already have around the house.   I have a large drawer full of dept store Masks I want to use up before I go out and spend money I shouldn't be on more high end products at least till I'm out of school next year.  The only thing that might change my mind is if once Ive use this all up and go onto the next product the dark circles come back immediately and I know for sure all the improvement was totally this product.  Then I will be buying sooner rather than later.

This picture was right after the mask.  Can u see the radiance it leaves.  Not look at my dark circles they have been there for yrs but the smooth texture and moisture is all NEW.  I have no skin care and no makeup on in the picture. 

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e.l.f. Studio Lip Exfoliator

e.l.f. Studio Lip Exfoliator is my new favorite lip product and its so "cheap".  Back in early July my Goddaughter and her sister were in for a visit from Seattle.  She turned 16 this yr so we had a few conversations about makeup and nail polish.  Her sister was really just getting into makeup @ age 14  and wanted me to take them to Ulta.  They had never been to one.  It was probably the only store around here they hadnt ever been in.

Later that night I showed her sister some Elf products online and she lit up like a Christmas tree.  So soon after they left I got online and made a big ELF purchase since I had a 50% off coupon.  The products arrived very fast. Less than a week and I ordered about 40 items.   I sent most of the items off to the girls the following week but the one product I order for me was this new Lip Exfoliator.    It was $3.00 and so I got it for $1.50...figured if I didnt like it, it wasnt going to break the bank.  Now I wish I had ordered more of them.

Heres what they say about the e.l.f. Studio Lip Exfoliator

Gently exfoliate lips to remove dry, chapped skin with our Lip Exfoliator! A sweet sugar and smoothing sensation, infused with Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Avocado, Grape and Jojoba Oils to nourish and protect. This Lip Exfoliator treats and smoothes lips for a conditioned and revitalized feel. Elf website

Apply to clean, damp lips and massage in a circular motion to exfoliate. Use a moistened cotton pad with water to gently wipe away scrub. Follow with a lip balm or gloss to condition.

INGREDIENTS

Apply to clean, damp lips and massage in a circular motion to exfoliate. Use a moistened cotton pad with water to gently wipe away scrub. Follow with a lip balm or gloss to condition.

Sugar, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Ceresin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Tocopherol, Aspartame, Fragrance.

Here is my review: 

Just in case you couldnt tell from the intro.  I really like this product.  Its cheap, easy to use with immediate results.  It tastes good too.   My dry chapped lips are smooth and so moist.  Great thing about this is u can use it several times a day.  I keep it with me at all times and use it and then just wipe away the sugar.  The taste of you lips is awesome.  Cant wait to get more so I can have one for all my bags and  the car and the dressing room. 

I first I thought this was an old idea and would be the same as buying some sugaring product.  Its so much better.  Its not a messy because its all contained in a lipstick like tube.  Theres no messy  oils dripping out of the sugaring jar all over your bathroom.  ELF did an awesome job on this one!!! 

I will probably order several the next time so all my family and friends can try them.  Great little gifts to pass out to the girls.

Friday Facial: Weekly Mask 2

I have so many masks in my bathroom. I'm using up ones Ive had and have used previously.  Hopefully before long I will start mixing up some of the homemade ones I posted a week or two ago.  However, I did order some organic honey to make one.

Friday Facial: Tonight I'm doing a Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Intensive Revitalizing Face Mask.  This is the last one I have.  The box came with 8 pieces but only 4 masks.  It is available online and in department stores.  The best price Ive found is online for $62.50. 

Here's what Shiseido says about their product:

Description:
A concentrated treatment sheet mask that encourages skin's natural recovery function and provides a rich infusion of moisture to help improve texture. Restores youthful suppleness and radiance with a single application.

• Developed with Shiseido-original Pure Liquid Retinol Delivery System, to penetrate skin rapidly and help combat wrinkles, dryness, and dullness.
• Formulated with aquatic plant extract Chlorella, a skin-vitality enhancer.
• Contains Hydroxyproline, a high-technology amino acid that parallels skin's own natural building blocks of collagen.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Pentaerythrityl Tetraoctanoate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat., Betaine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Squalane, Tocopheryl Acetate, Xanthan Gum, Arginine HCI, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glucosyl Hesperidin, Ginseng Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxyproline, Raspberry Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Sodium Citrate, Carbomer, BHT, Potassium Hydroxide, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Alcohol, Trisodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Fragrance, Beta-Carotene.

Here's what I think after using the product:

Just from the ingredient list.  I really dislike products that start out with Water as their largest ingredient.  Ive said this before.  That being said.  This is a good product but I wont repurchase often due to the price point.  I got this in a 8 piece of 4 masks.  The mask is in 2 pieces.  Package 1 is for the bottom 1/2 of your face and the packet 2 is for the forehead area.  There is alot of solution on the mask so u don't dry out before the time is up.  I don't feel you can use these more than once.  My skin feels smooth and soft and full of moisture.  My skin looks more radiant.  The dullness is gone.  I don't see any change in my dark circles but then nothing really helps that.  I cant expect miracles.  I would agree with their add that it does improve the look of fine lines and crows feet.  Overall, its a very nice feel.  I used the extra solution to place over my hands and so even they feel soft now. 

tip:  never throw away a mask that isn't totally dry.  Esp one of this quality.  After I had mine on for 30 min I then wiped the mask over my hands and massaged it in my cuticles.  It still felt like it could go some more and I did something I hadn't done before.  I used it on my feet.  I had such soft feet they were a bit slippery on the carpet so I had to put on house shoes to walk around the house for a short time.

Hair Loss in Aging Women

Let me start by saying I had some hair thinning back in 2006 after a major surgery but after a year of following my treatment it was all back.  I really don't have this as a problem now.  I was asked by 2 different people to write a blog entry about this so Ive been doing my research and reading on the topic and I'll just let you know what Ive come up with and what at this time is the cutting edge treatment(s). 

For me treatment consisted of thyroid testing, I had to be placed on Synthroid. My Vit D 3 was low and I had to improve my diet and take supplements.  My hair had thinned through out and was not just in one or two patches and as it grew back it was a little wavy.  It was bone straight before my surgery.  Ive been told that major surgery is a huge stress on your body and that this was a very normal phenomenon for what I had done. 

Second, there are many reasons for hair loss in women and about as many treatments:
Causes for hair loss are highly individual, but can include any combination of the following:

• Stress (emotional and physical)
• Hormonal imbalance, specifically androgen sensitivity
• Change in hormonal birth control
• Genetics
• Immune system irregularities
• Yeast overgrowth or fungi
• Thyroid disorders
• Crash or liquid protein diets leading to sudden dramatic weight loss
• Nutritional deficiencies (especially vitamin D, vitamin A, iron, and protein)
• Cosmetics (allergies and harsh treatments)
• Radiation/chemotherapy
• Dental treatment
• Blood loss
• Medications (including anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, antithyroid medication, and hormone therapy)
• Severe psychological distress or life-threatening situations
• Disease
• Surgery
• Scarring

Testing you can have done to see if you have a severe form of hair loss.

Here are the tests I’d recommend discussing with your practitioner:

• hormone panel (testing specifically both free and total testosterone levels)
• thyroid testing
• fasting insulin
• metabolic panel (for kidney and liver function)
• ferritin stores (for iron deficiency)
• CBC (complete blood count) with differential
• allergy testing

If you don't have a severe form then the milder forms you can deal with on your own by eating a well balanced diet, addressing vitamin replacement and your improving your emotional health.  Paying attention to your stress and diet can make a big difference it halting hair loss.

When it comes to foods for healthy hair and beauty, variety is the best way to go.

"An overall balanced diet of lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fatty fish like salmon and low-fat dairy will help keep hair healthy,"

 Top ten foods for healthy foods are Salmon, dark green veggies, beans, nuts, poultry, eggs, whole grains, oysters, low fat dairy products and carrots.  This article will give you more in dept as to why each of these foods is great for your hair so I will link it instead of just copy and paste it all:  http://www.webmd.com/healthy-beauty/features/top-10-foods-for-healthy-hair?page=2


Women typically don’t experience hair loss all at once. It frequently occurs over time. There is usually thinning around the crown and at the sides and some gradual, increased shedding. The hair’s part begins to widen, a ponytail has less volume, and the scalp may start to show through the hair.

Forty percent of people who experience temporary or long term hair loss are women.  And if you have an underlying medical problem or a nutritional deficiency, hair usually grows back on its own once that condition is under control.  Treatments usually consist of scalp drops(medications like Latisse or Minoxidil), laser treatments and hair replacement. 


What Exactly is Alopecia?  http://www.hairlosstalk.com/alopecia/index.php

Do you have Patchy Hair Loss?  http://www.hairlosstalk.com/hair-loss-women/

This is probably the best reference and they aren't pushing u to buy their product as you absorb all the information
Women and Hair Loss: Possible Causes:  http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/features/women-hair-loss-causes

Kollagenx Eye Mask

Kollagenx Eye Mask

Ive had dark circles all my life. Ive always looked like Ive been beaten and bruised. As I'm aging this gets  even worse...due to the thinning of my skin.  All the darkness shows even more with the paper thin skin.
  I recently started on a new eye cream and it is improving the area but I have a long way to go. The cream is reducing the thinning of the skin by increasing my collagen production(so I'm told) and improving the hydration(filling in my sinking sockets). My skin is now slowing puffing back out. I'm trying to get lots of water and lots of sleep. I also bought a cucumber today to freeze and place frozen slices on my eyes. I'm at a point where I'm going to try anything to get rid of these dark circles. I'm tired of buying stock in concealer companies in an attempt to hide the darkness only to look like a white eyed raccoon. 

I knew I forgot something when I took my picture....it was the eye shadow.  Here I went and did this with a clean dry face.  What was I thinking.  I should have applied a full face of makeup first...lol

Picture of the packaging.

Me on my 49th birthday.  Check out the dk circles

Me from my 48th birthday week.  Just before work with concealer on and u can still see my dk circles. 

Here is what they say about their product: 

4 Pieces 0.43 FL OZ / 12 g

Get all the great benefits of the 24KT Gold Collagen Mask with the convenience of isolating the dark or puffy circles under your eyes for that instant spa feeling while you’re on the go.

• Reduce under eye dark circles instantly
• Reduce under eye wrinkles and puffiness
• Enjoy firmer more taut skin
• Diminishes the appearance of under eye bags
• Easy and convenient to apply anywhere
• Works great when used between 24KT Gold Collagen Mask treatments.
• May be paired together with our 24KT Gold line for best results.

How to Use:

• Thoroughly clean and dry face
• Open Under Eye pack
• Pull plastic tray out
• Remove product from tray and place swirl side down on under eye area.
• Leave on for 25-30 min. (Recommended to lie or sit down to avoid shifting)
• Remove and gently massage until moisture is absorbed.
• No need to clean or rinse face after.
• Recommended use: Twice a week

Ingredients:  24k NM Gold Grains, Hyaluronic Acid, Vit E, Rose Essential Oil, Amino Acid, Foliaee Extract Essance, Vit Active Gene, Purified Water.

My results:

They gave alot of solution on the gold eye pads.  Like with the mask there was enough solution to replace the eye pads back in the pack and use another day.  So the 4 sets can each be used two times since they are placed on a clean face.  I love getting double use for my money.  I really don't like products that are dry and I don't get enough product for even one treatment.

The solution is watery like the mask.  It made my skin soft and smooth.  I don't notice a tight feeling but I do like the softness and the smoothness I feel when I touch the area.  It has decreased the puffiness I have in the inner 1/2 of my eye toward the bridge of my nose.  I didn't really have any puffiness on the outer 1/2 of my under eye.  It also took the deep dark circles I had under my eyes and made them a much lighter purple color.  Maybe with continued use they may stay like this or if I'm lucky get even lighter.  I will add more pics and an update when Ive used all 4 sets.  I don't normally use a whole set in a few weeks.  I like to change them up and use different ones each week but I may have to stick with this one for a few weeks to see if it continues to make a difference.

I would recommend this product.  I got this and the face mask at TJ Maxx.  These eye mask were 4 sets in one box for 14.99.  Like I said I had so much solution I can get two used out of each pack if u open them carefully and reseal them.  I placed mine in the fridge for no more than 3 days after they have been opened.  I prefer to use them the second day. 



I would say the only drawl back to this mask is that it is so watery that it tends to slip if u don't lay down.  I tried to sit up and watch TV and type on my laptop but when I did so they slid down my cheeks.  So I had to lay back in the recliner and just relax for the entire 30 min...what a shame...lol.

Weekly facial mask review: Kollagenx

Kollagenx 24kt gold collagen mask treatment

Several months ago I ran across a mask at T.J.Maxx that I had heard good things about but never tried due to the price.  However, it was 1/2 price at TJMaxx so I did buy it.  I got the $60 masks for $29.99.   This mask is advertised as the original 24kt gold collagen mask treatment.

 Kollagenx 24K Masks is a treatment that can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles using nano gold technology.  It takes only 30 minutes and is being compared to the treatment bliss that Cleopatra enjoyed in her days by packing her face with gold to sustain eternal beauty.

Here's what they say about their product:

http://kollagenx.com/kollagenx-24kt-gold-mask  With our 24KT Gold Collagen Mask you will enjoy a luxurious feeling of relaxation. Our NGT® based gold mask is proven and tested to moisturize and hydrate the skin at a professional level. It rebuilds collagen giving your skin a more firm and taut feeling. Helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles with every use. You will look and feel years younger and your skin will glow with a subtle shimmer.

• Reduce under eye dark circles instantly
• Reduce under eye wrinkles and puffiness
• Enjoy firmer more taut skin
• Diminishes the appearance of under eye bags
• Easy and convenient to apply anywhere
• May be paired together with our 24KT Gold line for best results.

Kollagenx ingredients are:  Collagen, 24kt gold grains, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Rose Essential Oil, Amino Acid, Foliage Extract Essence, Vitamin Active Gene, Purified Water.

Scary, this is why I do mask when hubby isn't home

MY RESULTS: 


Let me start by saying I love anything that has water as the last ingredient rather than the first or second.  I really dislike spending my money on WATER.  This mask solution was very runny.  It was a bit messy to open.  So I'm not so sure about the claim: Easy and convenient to apply anywhere. However, it was all worth it.  This made my skin feel amazing and I said my skin for a reason.  I put the mask on my face but used the plastic the mask was wrapped in to cover my arms in the solution.  My hands and arms got a treatment as well.  I do feel my skin is softer, plumper, less lines and fine wrinkles but I don't notice any change in the dark circles under my eyes but then the mask didn't really touch my under eye area.  I did also get the eye mask that I will review on another day.   The pack still has alot of solution left and I will reuse this again tomorrow after my shower.  I put the mask back in the solution and sealed the package tightly and placed in the fridge.  I will use the rest of the solution in a day or two.  This makes the 3 pack of masks a 6 pack.  Much better value.

Yes,  I thinks I got better than "SPA RESULTS" in this mask.  Now I know what all the talk was about.

Hair Masks you can make at home

Again these are recipes all found online and the ones for my hair type I have tried and sharing the rest with you.

 

Banana & Avocado Deep Conditioning Treatment for Dry Hair

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp of wheatgerm oil (I said to Stephanie, "Wheatgerm oil? Who has wheatgerm oil hanging around the house?" and she looked at me as if was the only person she knew who doesn't use wheatgerm oil on a regular basis). You can substitute olive oil if you, like me, don't have wheatgerm oil or time to run to your health food store for some.
• A few drops of essential oils, such as lavender, rose, sweet orange, or jasmine. Stephanie uses essential oils to mask the smell of the wheatgerm oil.

Preparation:

Mash all of the ingredients in a bowl or better yet, use a blender.

Shampoo hair, comb it out and towel-dry.

Apply mask to hair, including the scalp if you want. Or you can just deep condition the ends.

Put hair in a shower cap or wrap it in Saran Wrap and let it sit for about 15 minutes, longer if you prefer.

Rinse mask out in the shower. Place a heavy duty paper towel over the drain to catch the avocado and banana bits.

Sunflower oil is a wonderful natural moisturizer for dry hair. Instead of investing in expensive lotions and potions that can add chemicals and residue to your hair, use this simple sunflower oil remedy to make your dry hair silky smooth and manageable. Sunflower oil has smoothing properties and is considered noncomedogenic.

Sunflower Oil Treatment for Dry Hair

Ingredients:

• Sunflower oil (you can also use extra virgin coconut oil or safflower oil)
• A comb
• A warm, wet towel.

Preparation:

Wet hair in the shower. Apply a quarter-size amount of sunflower oil to your scalp (more or less as needed). Massage it into the scalp. Comb the oil through to the ends of your hair. Wrap hair in a hot wet towel for up to an hour. If you don't have that much time, I recommend wrapping hair in Saran Wrap for 20 minutes. Shampoo hair thoroughly.

 

 

Hair Strengthening Treatment

This homemade hair mask recipe is great for nourishing weak and brittle hair that’s prone to breakage.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/3 cup plant oil
• 1 teaspoon chamomile
• Nettle leaves
• Birch leaves
• Yolk
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2-3 drops rosemary oil

PREPARATION

Heat plant oil slightly and then add chamomile, nettle leaves and birch leaves. Leave to brew for approximately 30 minutes. Strain mixture. Add one egg yolk, honey, lemon, and rosemary oil. Mix well.

APPLICATION

Apply mixture to damp hair and massage gently until hair is completely coated. Cover hair with a towel, shower cap or cling wrap. This will retain heat and enhance the nourishing effects of the treatment. Leave on for 30 minutes and rinse out with cool water.

Maple syrup mask for dry hair

http://beauty.about.com/od/organicbeauty/r/Maple-Syrup-Mask-For-Dry-Hair.htm

Maple syrup is a natural remedy for dry or super dehydrated hair. Use this recipe once a week and your formerly brittle hair will come to life.

Ingredients:

• Pure maple syrup
• Lard (you can nix this if you don't have any on hand)
• Honey
• Wide-toothed comb
• A shower cap or Saran Wrap

Preparation:

Mix 3 tbsp. pure maple syrup (always better on pancakes than Aunt Jemima's so it's good to have on hand for breakfast, too), 2 tbsp lard (if you don't have this, simply use more maple syrup instead), and 1 tsp honey in a bowl.

Microwave for 15 seconds or until mixture is melted enough to stir together.

Let cool enough to touch.

Apply mixture to hair, combing through to ends using a wide-toothed comb.

Put hair in a plastic shower cap (or Saran Wrap).

Find something to do for 20 minutes that involves not leaving your house.

Rinse in the shower and shampoo.

Not recommended for oily hair (duh), unless you are trying to look oily and bedraggled for Halloween

Dandruff Remedies: How to Treat Dandruff Naturally

Homemade dandruff remedies are much better for your hair and scalp than the chemicals that are found in dandruff shampoos. This is a two-punch system. First, you use flaxseed oil, then you follow with apple cider vinegar which is great at fighting yeast and bacteria.

I love the addition of the sugar to the oil because it acts as a natural exfoliator for dry flakes, but some women prefer to leave the sugar out.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• Flaxseed oil (olive oil works if you don't have flaxseed oil)
• Finely granulated white sugar or brown suger
• Apple cider vinegar (preferred) or white wine vinegar
• Hydrogen peroxide

Preparation:

Mix a tablespoon or two of flaxseed oil and a teaspoon of sugar into a bowl. If you don't have liquid flaxseed oil, you can puncture 3-5 flaxseed oil capsules.

Apply the mixture to the scalp and massage in.

Wrap hair up in a hot wet towel and let the flaxseed oils soak in for about 20 minutes. You can also put hair up in a shower cap. Of course if you are short on time, you can skip this 20-minute let-the-oils-soak-in step.

While you're letting the flaxseed work on your dry scalp, mix up 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp hydrogen peroxid and 2 cups lukewarm water. For best results, put it in a spray bottle.

Get in the shower and rinse out the flaxseed oil from the scalp using a small amount of shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.

Turn off the water and separating your hair into sections, spray the scalp thoroughly with the vinegar/hydrogen peroxide/water mixture. Note: AVOID GETTING MIXTURE IN EYES.

Massage the vinegar into the scalp.

Wrap hair again in a hot wet towel or in a shower cap (less messy). Let the vinegar mixture soak into your scalp for 20 minutes to an hour. (Yes, you can skip the marinating if you are short on time, but do let it sit on your scalp for at least a minute).

Rinse.

 

Hair Mask for Dry or Color Treated Hair

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa
• Hot milk
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 2 vitamin E capsules (pierced)
• 2-3 drops geranium essential oil
• 2-3 drops cedar wood essential oil
• 2-3 drops ylang ylang essential oil
• 2-3 drops lemon essential oil
• 2-3 drops lavender essential oil

PREPARATION

Mix together cocoa and a little hot milk until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add all essential oils into the cocoa and milk mixture. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are completely combined and smooth.
APPLICATION
Apply mixture to hair, covering completely from roots to tips. Leave treatment in for approximately one hour. Rinse hair mask completely, then shampoo and condition as normal.

 

Green Tea Hair Mask

This homemade hair mask is very effective for stimulating healthy hair growth if you suffer from thinning hair and hair loss. Use this treatment three to four times per week to create long, thick and luxurious hair.
INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons fresh green tea (strong)
• 1 tablespoon mustard powder
• 1 egg yolk

PREPARATION
Mix all ingredients together until you reach a creamy consistency. If it becomes too thick, add more green tea.
APPLICATION
Part hair down the center and apply mixture. Cover hair with a shower cap or cling wrap. Leave in for approximately 15 to 25 minutes. Your head will feel slightly warm, as the mustard helps to increase the blood circulation to the scalp. Rinse thoroughly, then shampoo and condition as normal.

Strawberries and “Cream”

This mask is excellent for those with frizzy hair. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 to 10 strawberries
• 1 tablespoon of real mayonnaise

1. Using a fork, mash the strawberries (in a bowl) until they are runny and practically a liquid. This step will go much faster if you cut your strawberries into fourths before attempting to mash them. Then, stir in the mayo.
2. Wet your hair just to dampen it, then apply the mask thoroughly to your hair and scalp.
3. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave on for twenty minutes. When the time is up, shampoo the mask out and rinse as usual.

Banana Bread Treatment

With a couple of baking ingredients and salt, this homemade hair mask recipe would make banana bread! As you can imagine, it smells so scrumptious, it’ll have your mouth watering for some banana bread — which you can make while you let it set on your hair!
Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons of milk
• 3 tablespoons of honey
• 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Put all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until the mixture is smooth. Apply to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes, then use warm water to rinse. To wash, shampoo hair as usual. This recipe also works well to control the frizzies

Holy Guacamole

OK, so this isn’t exactly like guacamole, and you probably don’t want to dip nachos in it. However, it’s still a great moisturizer for hair types 2, 3, 3C and 4 — so pretty much all curlies!
Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• up to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Slice the avocado lengthwise, remove the pit, and scrape out the flesh inside. Place it in a bowl, then add the honey and olive oil. Whip the ingredients together for about a minute and apply to hair from scalp to tips. You can then let it set for about 20 minutes before shampooing the mixture out of your hair.

Money saving skin care u can make at home.

To start with I did not make up these recipes.  I have found most of them online way before I started this blog so some of them I dont even know where I got them.  I will try to post sites of the ones I know.  Most all of these are tried and true and can be found on many sites online.  Most were found on about.com under beauty.

Why pay for a face mask when you can use basic ingredients found around the house to make your own simple, hydrating masks? If you have oily or acne-prone skin, mud or clay-based masks are great for balancing out your skin. Dry skin will benefit from hydrating masks made from glycerin, honey and oils. Ginseng or green tea masks are great for soothing sensitive skin. Scrubs are great for getting rid of the dead skin. Try one prior to applying a face mask.

How to Make a Cucumber Facial Mask 

from ehow.com

Instructions

• Put a sliced cucumber into a food processor and blend until it becomes pulpy. Pour this into a strainer and collect the liquid in a bowl. Add 1 tsp. each of lemon juice and witch hazel, which also have gently astringent and purifying effects on the skin. Add 1 gently beaten egg white and stir to combine ingredients. Apply the mixture to the face and neck, avoiding the eyes. Leave on for 15 to 25 minutes and rinse with warm water.
• Mix 1/2 cucumber, sliced or cut in chunks with 1 tsp. of mint, 1 tbsp. of lemon juice and the white of 1 egg. Put all ingredients in a blender and mix well. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes before applying to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm, then cool water.

1. Dark Under Eye Circles?
   
   

   UnderEyeTreatmentCenter.com/Circles

   
   

   • Grate 1/2 cucumber into a bowl, making sure the pieces are small enough to be applied to the face as a mask. Add 1 tsp. of rose water. Apply to the forehead, nose and chin, where skin is naturally more oily. The mixture can be used all over the face, including under the eyes and on the eyelids, for pore-reducing and skin-tightening affect. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse skin with warm water.
   • 
     
   • Combine cucumber with avocado for a skin tightening and nourishing facial mask. Chop 1/2 cucumber and 1/2 avocado and mix in a blender or food processor. Add the white of 1 egg and 2 tsp. of powdered milk.
     Refrigerate for a half hour before applying the mixture to the face and neck. Leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm, then cool water.
   • 
     
   • Add apple to a cucumber mask for gentle fruit-acid exfoliation. Chop 1/2 cucumber and 1/2 apple and mix in a food processor until all the large pieces are incorporated. Add 1 tsp. of honey and apply to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse with warm, then cool water.

David Parker’s Pumpkin Enzyme Face Mask

http://www.youbeauty.com/skin/skin-recipe-david-parkers-pumpkin-enzyme-face-mask?layout=print

Treat your skin to this sweet mask, for a youth-boosting look.

• Pumpkin Enzyme Face Mask

Pumpkin isn’t just for pies on Thanksgiving.
It contains naturally occurring enzymes and beta carotene—a source of vitamin A—as well as other anti-aging antioxidants, according to David Parker, co-founder and “Cosmetic Chef” of The Body Deli.
“We also use pumpkin seed oil in many of The Body Deli’s products for its naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids,” says Parker. “The lemon juice acts as a mild exfoliant and skin brightener.”

Thinkstock

Ingredients:
1 can pumpkin pie purée
2 tsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp pumpkin seed oil

Pinch cinnamon

Pinch nutmeg
Place half the can of pumpkin purée in a bowl and mix in the lemon juice, pumpkin seed oil and spices. Apply the mask to your face and allow skin to absorb for 10 to 15 minutes. For a more spa-like experience, apply it before soaking in a warm tub, since steam helps the mask to further penetrate the skin and open up pores. Rinse off with warm water. The recipe makes enough for two treatments, so share with a friend or store the extra in the fridge for up to five days.

 

Honey Mask

In a small bowl, combine

• 3 Vitamin E caps
• 1 table spoon of coconut oil
• 2 table spoons of plain yogurt
• 1/2 table spoon of Honey
• 1/2 a lemon

Next, mix all of this well and then apply to your face using your fingers, or better yet, use cotton. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse well and apply the moisturizer:

Moisturizer

• 1 table spoon of Tea tree oil
• 1 table spoon of Aloe Vera juice

Apply this generously to the skin. Wait for the glow :)

Egg Whites and Yogurt Mask

(only 2 ingredients required!) "moisturizing and soothing."

 

Ingredients:

• 2 egg whites, separated from the yolk and placed in a bowl
• 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (I like Greek yogurt)

Preparation:

Separate the egg whites from a couple eggs and place them in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt (do not use flavored yogurt!). Mix them up and apply to face. Leave on face for a few minutes then rinse face in warm water, followed by a warm washcloth.

Avocado Face Mask for Dry Skin

Avocados and honey are particularly moisturizing. This mask is particularly great for mature, wrinkled and dry skin. It's best to use a ripe, fresh, organic avocado. Make sure to mash it up into a creamy pulp. Avocados are also great for deep conditioning dry hair. See my avocado and banana hair mask recipe.

Ingredients:

• ½ avocado
• ¼ cup honey

Preparation:

A classic recipe for dry skin. Mash the avocado in a bowl, then stir in honey.
Apply to skin and leave for 10 minutes.
Rinse face with a cool washcloth.

 

 

Banana mask for oily skin

This is a soothing face mask and great if you have bananas around the house. Bananas are great for the hair, too. See my Banana & Avocado Deep Conditioning Treatment for Dry Hair recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana, preferably ripe (you can keep ripe bananas in the freezer. Let it thaw before using)
• 1 tbsp honey
• An orange or a lemon

Preparation:

Mix the banana and honey together.
Add a few drops of juice from an orange or a lemon.
Apply to face for 15 minutes before rinsing with a cool washcloth or a steaming warm washcloth.

Recipes for Natural Homemade Facial Moisturizers

www.symptomfind.com/
Try one of these homemade facial moisturizers to save money and relieve dry skin naturally.
1. Wheat Germ Moisturizer
Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chamomile
• 1 cup milk
• 4 tbsp. honey
• 8 tbsp. wheat germ

Directions

1. Combine the dried chamomile and milk. Allow them to soak together for two hours.
2. Strain the chamomile out.
3. Add the honey and wheat germ. Mix the ingredients into a creamy lotion.
4. Apply the paste to your face. Wait 5 minutes, then rinse.
5. Leftover paste can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Benefits

• Chamomile softens dry skin and the aromas create a soothing experience.
• Using the cream once it is cold will also help reduce the appearance of pores and soothe puffy areas (such as bags under the eyes).
• The vitamin E found in wheat germ can be beneficial for skin that has been damaged like scarring or stretch marks.

2. Yogurt and Honey Moisturizer
Ingredients

• 2 egg whites
• 1 lemon
• 3 tsp. honey
• 6 tbsp. plain yogurt

Directions

1. Put the egg whites in a bowl and beat them until whipped.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice into the bowl, then add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
3. Apply the mixture to your face. After 15 minutes, rinse.
4. Store any extra mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Benefits

• Egg whites absorb excess oil from the skin without drying it out.
• Yogurt soothes and softens the skin while reducing the appearance of pores.
• Honey helps remove dead skin cells and is also antibacterial.

3. Oatmeal Moisturizer
Ingredients

• ½ cup oats
• 4 tbsp. whole milk

Directions

1. Grind the oats to a fine powder using a food processor or coffee grinder.
2. Add the ground oats and whole milk into a bowl. Mix well.
3. Apply the mask to your face. Wait 15 minutes, then rinse.

Benefits

• Oatmeal is great as a natural scrub and cleanser for your face.
• It can also be used as a facial mask to sooth irritated skin.
• It helps repair dry skin and may also help to control acne.
• Oatmeal baths are also effective for treating eczema and chickenpox.

My July Favorites (top 5)

I thought I would share with you my most favorite skincare products Im currently using.  Ive been using all of these for a month or longer.  Actually after looking at the list.  I have used these all up at least once and repurchased them.  These are the products I get the most bang for my buck on.  Ive used cheaper and Ive used more expensive but these are what Im loving now.   I will have other fav list in other post like favorite makeup products both dept store products and drug store products. 

So here goes my best of the best in July:
1)  Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads
2)  Skin Cosmetics cleansing 2 piece system
3)  Wen 6/13 cleansing conditioner
4)  Philosophy Baby Grace
5)  Skin Collagenesis-facial cream





1)  My all time favorite product of the summer is this peel.  I started using these this summer (June 1st).  They are the Dr. Gross Alpha Beta Peel pads.  I dont miss a day of using this wonderful product.  Somedays I used it twice .  I got my first ones in a 14 day trial kit.  I loved them.  Next I got a 30 day kit and before I used it up I found the 60 day box on sale at Nordstom so I got 2 more boxes so this is my favorite product of the summer.  I really dont want to ever be without these.  However, I know something better will be out by next yr Im sure...Yes I have had the Dr Dennis Koolaid.  Sorry if u dont like his products.  It works great on my aging dry skin.

Who is it for: Anybody who wants to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size, and make their skin look younger, more radiant, and increase its natural glow.

Why is it different: This quick, easy, gentle micro-exfoliation formula instantly firms skin and eliminates dullness, revealing a luminous look. It improves the look of enlarged pores, and the two-step technology creates radiant results, for all ages and skin types, in two minutes--no recovery time necessary.

Yes I do wish I came up with these.  Wish I had stock in the company but so far I dont.  I am begging them for a job I love their skin care so much!!!

2)  Back in the spring I purchased 2 new facial cleansers.  Ive been using them for months without fail.  They work in conjunction with each other.  All I can say is I love the way my skin feels since I started switching up my cleanser.  One for the Am and one for the Pm.  Here is what they say about them:
They are by SKINN COSMETICS

Olive & Enzyme Rich Balm Cleanser: PM

Rich in polyphenols and skin enzymes, this water-free, super-rich, night-time cleansing balm is the ultimate skin luxury.

It dissolves dirt, makeup, daily grime, pollution and dead skin cells.

It's so gentle it even removes eye makeup as it softens and smoothes the skin with rich olive butter.

Orange oil works to purify, and soften for the cleanest skin ever.

Apply as a mask for the ultimate super smoothing, resurfacing, deep pore cleansing treatment.

Sulfate Free Rapid Exfoliating Cleanser: AM

This water-activated, detergent-free cleanser is designed to leave your skin feeling squeaky clean.

Sulfate free, it can thoroughly cleanse and help remove dead skin helping your skin care products penetrate better and makeup will go on smoother.

Contains mild alpha-hydroxy-acids (AHAs) buffered with green tea extract to gently resurface and minimize the appearance of pores

3)  My hair cleanser is the Wen Six Thirteen cleansing conditioner.  I have only used Wen on my hair for the last 2.5 yrs and my hair has never looked better.  I have had some problems with my hair since moving to the country with the well water.  Dont know what I would have done without the WEN.

Heres what Wen says about its 6/13

Nourishment in numbers. Powered with a blend of eleven amino acids, this daily cleansing treatment revitalizes all types of hair--including damaged locks--by helping to add strength and elasticity. To use, simply rinse hair with cool water, then thoroughly coat hair from scalp to ends with the treatment. From WEN by Chaz Dean.


4) My body cleanser Ive been using is by Philosophy perfumed olive oil body scrub.  Its in  the baby grace scent.  Which is listed as  a nurturing, softly sweet, single-note floral fragrance created to make a woman feel nurtured and comforted.  I dont think this is my all time favorite body cleanser but I do love the scent and Im using it with the scented lotion and body spray.  The body spray is my favorite fragrance right now and probably has been for about 2 yrs now.  I use it more in the summer because its so light and fresh.  I also love spraying it in the room before I go to sleep.  My bff loves it as well and I had to go get her a bottle recently. 


5)  Skinn Collagenesis is my new facial moisturizer.  I dont think this is for everyone. Its very moisturizing but if u are dry as I am its amazing.  I really wish I could afford to use this on my entire body.  I love how it feels but it comes in very small jars so I try my best not to waste a drop. 

Here is what they say are the benifits of this product: 
Benefits:

This exceptional cream represents the anti-aging breakthrough technology of 17 countries.

Used AM and PM, Youth Preservation Cream is the perfect complement to Collagenesis Ampoules as it will seal in powerful ingredients that will you looking vibrant and breathtakingly radiant.

This exquisite youthful formula gives you skin that is cushiony soft and velvety to the touch and tone that looks astonishingly even with refined texture.

A worry-free naturally advanced system containing no waxes, no parabens, no petrochemicals and no mineral oil so you can use both day and night to keep the look of your skin firm, smooth and naturally in balance.